Regions
history and locale
From beaches to valleys, the regions of San Luis Obispo have it all. »
Pismo Beach
Pismo Beach is a great place to spend the day and is well known for its many saloons and places of entertainment. Fun-seekers can find a skating rink, a bowling alley, a dance hall, and in the old days even several notorious brothels.
Today, the town retains much of this same honkytonk character and charm, though minus the illegal activities. Beachside bars still jump with music, old and new; eateries still claim the ubiquitous Pismo clam as their own, serving them up deep-fried or steamed, and in chowders and stews. Surfers and skateboarders abound, as do specialty tattoo shops, shell shops and salt water taffy.
As if all the usual beach activities were not enough, visitors today will also find a bustling weekly Farmers’ Market where hula hoop and kite flying classes are held, along with the usual fresh fruits and vegetables. There are orchid shows, Easter egg hunts, art shows and concerts, plus surf contests, railroad shows, a mortorcycle classic, and every Father’s Day Weekend, the West Coast’s largest classic car and hot-rod show owns the town. The monarch butterfly grove is a huge attraction for visitors and locals alike, as are the 4th of July fireworks displays and the oldest party of all – the Clam Festival, held in October.
Pismo Beach residents are friendly and helpful, grateful to have earned their place in the sun, and eager to share their own perspective from the town that can claim the longest pier in California. Come play the day away in Pismo Beach – wriggle your toes in the sand, and why not “Go fly a kite!”
Weather
Average daily temps in Pismo Beach during the summer months May to September range in the mid-50s to mid-70s; winter month October to April see a drop of about 10 degrees with average daily temps in the low mid-40s to mid-60s. Average rainfall is about 13 inches each year and falls mainly during the first three months of the year.